‘Jingle all the way:' 31 Years of Festival of Trees

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO: Festival of Trees

A local tradition for 31 years, Festival of Trees took place at the RiverCenter Nov. 18 through Nov. 26.

Guests could enjoy the decorated trees, the gingerbread house display, art from local high schools, and a variety of performances. Many Bettendorf students got involved by singing with the choir or by submitting art.

Concert choir and chamber choir sang traditional Christmas carols like “Silent Night,” “Sleigh Ride,” and “Christmas Day.”

This was Eric Eastland’s third time singing at Festival of Trees.

“It’s fun, and it’s a good way to get in the holiday spirit,” Eastland said.

Stevi Mulvehill also sang at Festival of Trees with concert choir. This was her fourth time performing at the event.

Mulvehill’s favorite part was “singing on stage and seeing the people visiting, and also looking at the scenery.”

Many Bettendorf students also had their art displayed at Festival of Trees. Kim Schrupp had one of her self portraits from AP Studio Art showcased at the holiday event.

“I used regular charcoal and watercolor paint for the background,” Schrupp said.

Once again, Festival of Trees was a big success and a fun event for all ages.